Eddie Hall, the 2017 World’s Strongest Man, is set to make his professional MMA debut against seasoned fighter and five-time World’s Strongest Man, Mariusz Pudzianowski. The fight will take place under KSW, Europe’s leading MMA promotion, marking a high-stakes transition for Hall from strength sports to combat.
The announcement comes after years of speculation about Hall’s potential entry into mixed martial arts. Unlike many newcomers who begin with amateur bouts, Hall is jumping directly into the deep end against a veteran with nearly 30 professional fights.
“I’m fighting Mariusz Pudzianowski,” Hall stated. “That sounds ridiculous to say. It’s my first MMA fight, and I’m going up against one of the most dangerous men on the planet.”
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Facing a Seasoned Opponent
Pudzianowski transitioned from strongman to MMA in 2009, building a 16-year career in the sport. The Polish powerhouse has competed at the highest level of European MMA, including a title fight in KSW’s heavyweight division. Known for his explosive power and aggressive fighting style, he has established himself as a legitimate contender in the sport.
Hall acknowledges the challenge ahead, recognizing Pudzianowski’s experience. “At some point, Mariusz has been in the top three or top five in MMA in Europe. That’s a hell of an accolade,” he said. “He’s won way more than he’s lost, and the way he fights is just so violent.”
Hall’s Training and Fight Preparation
Despite his lack of professional fight experience, Hall has been preparing for MMA for some time. He has trained in various disciplines, focusing on striking, grappling, and endurance to compete against a high-caliber opponent.
His biggest challenge is adapting his body for a sport that demands more than raw strength. He started his camp at 164 kg (360 lbs) and is aiming to cut down to 150 kg (330 lbs) to improve his agility and stamina.
“I wanted two-minute rounds so I could go in and just windmill,” Hall admitted. “But Mariusz wouldn’t drop below four minutes. That means I’ve got to get super fit.”
To build endurance, Hall has incorporated a mix of high-intensity training and technical skill development. His routine includes:
- Weight training for endurance rather than maximum power.
- Cardio sessions such as swimming and fast-paced walks to enhance lung capacity.
- Bag work and sparring to develop striking power and movement.
- Technical training with experienced coaches to refine his fighting strategy.
A Strict Diet for Peak Performance
Hall has also overhauled his diet to complement his training. Following a carnivore-based meal plan, he focuses on high-protein, high-fat foods while keeping carbohydrates to a minimum. His daily intake consists primarily of:
- Meat, dairy, and eggs making up 95% of his diet.
- Fermented foods such as pickles and sauerkraut to support gut health.
- Limited fruit like berries, eaten sparingly.
Tracking his nutrition through a diet app, Hall is ensuring he meets his protein and calorie targets while maintaining a calorie deficit for weight loss.
Recovery and Injury Prevention
Recognizing the physical toll of MMA training, Hall has integrated a strict recovery protocol:
- Physiotherapy multiple times per week to prevent injuries.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy to accelerate muscle repair and improve oxygen circulation.
- Hot-cold therapy (sauna and ice baths) to reduce inflammation and aid sleep.
- Supplements including creatine, anti-aging compounds, and immune-boosting nutrients.
“My body is taking a beating every day, so I need to stay on top of recovery,” Hall said. “This isn’t just about strength—it’s about stamina, resilience, and being able to go the distance.”
What’s Next?
Hall admits he is stepping into uncharted territory but remains confident in his ability to compete. “I’m scared, 100%, but if I didn’t think I could beat him, I wouldn’t be doing this,” he said.
As he continues his intense training camp, fans can follow his progress through regular updates on social media. The fight, set to be broadcast on pay-per-view, is expected to draw significant attention from both strength sports and MMA communities.
“I’m going for it. Why not?” Hall said. “Let’s see what happens.”
Final Thoughts
Eddie Hall’s transition from strongman to MMA marks one of the most ambitious moves of his career. With a tough opponent ahead, a rigorous training regimen, and a mindset focused on success, Hall is determined to prove he belongs in the world of combat sports. Whether he can overcome the experience gap against Pudzianowski remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—this fight will be one of the most anticipated matchups in crossover combat sports history.
